Trigger
Point or Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy often called Neuromuscular Technique (NMT)
releases small tight areas within muscles that create tight bands and knots in
the muscle fibers. The nerve impulses to these fibers are continually switched
on. Through manual release techniques these can be released. Trigger points
restrict motion range, weaken the muscle, and refer pain elsewhere in the body.

Eighty
percent of the trigger point sights coincide with accupuncture points of the
body. Trigger point release techniques have been traced back to the 1800’s in
Western medicine. Dr. Janet Travell, a White House physician, and Dr. David
Simons wrote the first research books describing the techniques as “ myofascial
trigger point.” Trigger point is practiced by many such as doctors,
chiropractors, and massage therapists.

What
can I expect?

Expect
manual assessment and manipulation of trigger points throughout the body. The
trigger points will be detected with gentle pressing techniques. The muscle will
be compressed with sustained pressure using hands, fingers, elbows, or a small
hand-held instrument until it releases. Trigger points in muscles, tendons and
ligaments refer pain to other areas of the body that may be sensed during the
treatment. Although slight discomfort may be felt until the point releases, the
overall experience is deeply relaxing.

Medically
used, a physician or physiatrist will insert a needle into the muscle, where
there is a trigger point and inject a form of novacaine. This novacaine is used
to help alleviate the pain from the needle. Although not entirely pleasant, the
results have been demonstrable.

What
are the reported benefits?

Trigger Point bodywork increases circulation, range of motion, and muscle tone.
It reduces muscle spasms and prevents scar tissue from forming. The relaxation
of muscles reduces chronic pain and the effects of stress. Trigger point
effectively prevents and treats a wide variety of conditions involving
connective tissue. These include sports injuries, repetitive strain injuries,
migraines, arthritis, chronic pain, and fibromyalgia.